Bed

ABSTRACT

A bed is disclosed. The bed has four posts, a plurality of longitudinal members, and at least one support member. Each post has a plurality of key openings arranged vertically along the post. Each of the longitudinal members has a plurality of keys. Each longitudinal member is releasably connected at opposite ends to a pair of the posts. The plurality of keys are removably engageable with the plurality of the key openings of corresponding posts. The at least one support member extends between the plurality of longitudinal members and providing a support surface. End plates can be connected at opposite ends to pairs of the posts.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 63/008,489, filed Apr. 10, 2020, which is herein incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates in general to beds.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Beds provide a resting place for persons. However, the present inventors recognized a need for a bed that is modular and capable of easy transport, assembly, and disassembly.

The present inventors recognized a need for bedding that can be deployed quickly to fulfill emergency bed needs, such as in a health crisis. The present inventors recognized the need for a device that is selectively configurable and reconfigurable to provide a bed, a desk, a workstation, a storage, and/or other station as needed. The present inventors recognized the need for modular beds or workstations where adjacent beds or workstations utilize common components for increased efficiency. The present inventors recognized the need for a bed or workstation where accessories can be easily added and removed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A bed is disclosed. The bed has four posts, a plurality of longitudinal members, and at least one support member. Each post has a plurality of key openings arranged vertically. Each end plate is connected at opposite ends to a pair of the posts. Each of the longitudinal members has a plurality of keys. Each longitudinal member is releasably connected at opposite ends to a pair of the posts. The plurality of keys are removably engageable with the plurality of the key openings of corresponding posts. The at least one support member extends between the plurality of longitudinal members and providing at bedding support surface. In some embodiments, end plates, such as a head plate and a foot plate, can be connected at opposite ends to corresponding pairs of the posts. In some embodiments, the bed is arranged as a desk or workstation.

Numerous other advantages and features of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description of the invention and the embodiments thereof, from the claims, and from the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment bed of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the posts and an end plate of the bed of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a top view of the posts and end plate of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of a post of the bed of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of a spanning unit of the bed of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is an end view of the spanning unit of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a partial end view of the spanning unit of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a key of the spanning unit of FIG. 5.

FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the spanning unit of FIG. 5.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a panel of the spanning unit of FIG. 5.

FIG. 11 is an end view of the panel of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a partial side view of a portion of the post and a portion of the spanning unit of the bed of FIG. 1 with the post shown transparently.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a second embodiment bed of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of posts and an end plate of the bed of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a partial top view of a post and end plate of the bed of FIG. 13.

FIG. 16 is a side view of the posts of the bed of FIG. 13.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a portion of the posts of the bed of FIG. 13.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a bed row comprising two beds of the invention.

FIG. 19 is a side view of a portion of a post and a portion of two spanning units of the bed row of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a second embodiment bed row of the invention.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a third embodiment bed row of the invention.

FIG. 22 is a side view of the bed row of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a side view of a workstation and portions of spanning members of the bed row of FIG. 21.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the bed of FIG. 13 with a siderail and a shelf.

FIG. 25 is a side view of the siderail of FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a side view of the bed of FIG. 24 with the posts shown transparently.

FIG. 27 is an end view of the siderail of FIG. 24.

FIG. 28 is an end view of a portion of the spanning unit and a portion of the siderail of the bed of FIG. 24.

FIG. 29 is a side view of the shelf of FIG. 24.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the shelf of FIG. 24.

FIG. 31 is a side perspective view of the shelf, a portion of the posts, and end plate of the bed of FIG. 24, with one of the posts shown transparently.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a third embodiment bed of the invention.

FIG. 33 is a rear perspective view of an incline unit of the bed of FIG. 32.

FIG. 34 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the incline unit of FIG. 33.

FIG. 35 is a side view of a portion of the incline unit of FIG. 33 with the first member shown transparently.

FIG. 36 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the incline unit of FIG. 33.

FIG. 37 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the incline unit of FIG. 33.

FIG. 38 is an end view of a portion of the spanning unit of FIG. 32 including a portion of the incline unit.

FIG. 39 is a side view of a second embodiment workstation of the invention with the spanning unit in a first vertical position.

FIG. 40 is a side view of a third embodiment workstation of the invention with the spanning unit in a second vertical position.

FIG. 41 is a side view of a fourth embodiment workstation of the invention with the spanning unit in a third vertical position.

FIG. 42 is a side view of the bed of FIG. 1 with the spanning unit in a second vertical position.

FIG. 43 is a bunk bed of the invention with two spanning units deployed at different heights.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the third embodiment bed of FIG. 32 with wheels.

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of a wheel and a wheel bracket of FIG. 44.

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of alternative embodiment posts and end plate.

FIG. 47A is a perspective view of a portion of the post and end plate of FIG. 46.

FIG. 47B is a perspective view of a portion of the post and end plate of FIG. 46 with a bolt fastener.

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the third embodiment bed of FIG. 32 with second embodiment side rails.

FIG. 49 is a front view of a portion of the second embodiment side rail of FIG. 48.

FIG. 50 is a front view of a portion of the second embodiment side rail engaged with a post, shown transparently, of FIG. 48.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of the workstation of FIG. 21 with drawers and adjacent beds.

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of a drawer of FIG. 51.

FIG. 53 is a side view of a slider bracket and slider of FIG. 52.

FIG. 54 is a lower perspective view of a second embodiment shelf.

FIG. 55 is an upper perspective view of the shelf of FIG. 54.

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of a portion of the IV stand and bed of FIG. 57.

FIG. 57 is a perspective view of a portion of an IV stand and bed.

FIG. 58 is a perspective view of a light fixture and a portion of the bed of FIG. 13.

FIG. 59 is a side perspective view of the light fixture and a portion of the bed of FIG. 58.

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a second embodiment bunk bed of the invention.

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of another embodiment bed row with a workstation of the invention.

FIG. 62 is a front perspective view of a cabinet of FIG. 61.

FIG. 63 is a front perspective view of a portion of the cabinet of FIG. 61.

FIG. 64 is a front perspective exploded view of a portion of the cabinet of FIG. 61.

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of a bed row with a workstation comprising a cabinet with drawers of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention. For the purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature is set forth to provide a plural understanding of the present invention. While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, there are shown in the drawings, and will be described herein in detail, specific embodiments thereof with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated.

FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment bed 10. The bed comprises posts 12, 14, 16, 18 and a spanning unit 20. In some embodiments, the bed comprises a first end plate 22 and/or a second end plate 24. In some embodiments, the posts 12, 14 and the first end plate 22 form a first end unit 26, and the posts 16, 18 and the second end plate 24 form a second end unit 28. The posts can act as legs for the bed to support the bed on an external surface, such as the ground. In some embodiments, the first end plate acts as a head board or panel and the second end plate acts as a foot board or panel.

In some embodiments, the first end unit 26 and the second end unit 28 are identical, but the second end unit is rotated 180 degrees from the position of the first end unit when deployed with the spanning unit 20, as shown in FIG. 1.

Posts 14, 16 are mirror image identical to posts 12, 18 about the midplane 30 bisecting the bed along its longitudinal length. Therefore, posts 12, 18 will be described in detail.

Posts 12, 14, 16, 18 comprise an L-shape. Each post comprises a plurality of key openings 32 extending vertically along at least a portion of the post. In some embodiments, the key openings 32 are located along substantially the entire length of each post from a bottom end 34 to a top end 36 as shown in FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the key openings are located along a one or more portions of the height of the post.

Each post comprises a first arm 38, 39 and a second arm 40, 58. The first arm meets the second arm at a right angle. The first arm comprises a first plate portion 42, 43 and a second plate portion 44, 45. The first plate portion 42, 43 is longer than the second plate portion 44, 45. A slot 46, 47 is formed between the first plate portion 42, 43 and the second plate portion 44, 45 to receive a side end 48, 49 of the corresponding end plate 22, 24 as shown in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the corresponding side end 48, 49 may be friction fitted into slot 46, 47 and/or it may be fixed to the adjacent portions 42, 44 or 43, 45 by welding, a fastener(s), and/or other means of fixation and thereby joining the corresponding end plate 22, 24 to the corresponding posts.

The second arm 40, 58 comprises a first wall 50, 51, a second wall 52, 53, and a third wall 54, 55. The first wall 50, 51 connects to the first plate portion 42, 43 at one end and to the second wall 52, 53 at an opposite end. The second wall 52, 53 connects to the first wall 50, 51 at one end and to the third wall 54, 55 at an opposite end. The third wall 54, 55 connects to the second plate portion 44, 45 at one end and to the second wall 52, 53 at an opposite end. The first plate portion 42, 43 is opposite the second wall 52, 53. A channel 56, 57 is formed within the first plate portion 42, 43, the first wall 50, 51, the second wall 52, 53, and the third wall 54, 55. In some embodiments, the following pairs of portions and/or walls join at right angles: portion 42 and wall 50, wall 50 and wall 52, wall 52 and wall 54, wall 54 and portion 44.

Exemplary key openings 32 are shown in FIG. 4. The openings 32 have an entry aperture 60 and an engaged aperture 62. The entry aperture is larger than the engaged aperture. In some embodiments the bottom 64 of the engaged aperture is curve. In some embodiments, the entry aperture 60 has a width or diameter that is greater than the width or diameter of the engaged aperture. In some embodiments, the engaged aperture has straight sides 66 and the entry aperture has curved sides 68. In some embodiments, the entry aperture has a flat top 70.

The spanning unit 20 is shown in more detail in FIGS. 5 through 7 and 9. The unit 20 comprises longitudinal members 72, 74. In some embodiments, members 72 and 74 are identical but member 74 is rotated, when deployed, from the position of member 72 to the position of member 74 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

Each longitudinal member 72, 74 comprises one or more keys 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90 at opposite ends 92, 94, 96, 98 of each member, respectively. Key 88 is located behind key 90 in FIG. 9. In some embodiment, as shown in the figures, the keys of the following key sets are vertically aligned (76, 78), (80, 82), (84, 86), (88, 90). A surface 100 extends between the longitudinal members 72, 74. In some embodiments, a plurality of panels 102 form the surface 100 and extend between the longitudinal members.

In some embodiments, a mid-brace 104 is located between the longitudinal members 72, 74 and under the panels 102 to provide support to the panels 102. The mid-brace 104 is supported by a cross bar 106, which joins with the longitudinal members 72, 74 at opposite ends 108, 110 of the cross bar 106.

In some embodiments, the mid-brace 104 has a U-shaped cross-section, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. The cross bar 106 comprises mid vertical slots 112, 114 to receive the arms 116, 118 of the mid-brace 104. The ends 108, 110 comprise end upper and lower slots 120, 122, 124, 126 to receive rail lips 128, 130, 132, 134 of the members 72, 74.

FIG. 7 shows an end view of the member 72 along with portions of the cross-bar and panel 102. The member has a lower rail lip 130, a bottom wall 136, a side wall 138, a top wall 140, a side panel wall 142, a bottom panel wall 144, and the top rail lip 128. The lower rail lip 130 connects to the bottom wall 136, the side wall 138 is connected to the bottom wall 136 at one end and the top wall 140 at the opposite end. The top wall 140 is connected to the side panel wall 142 opposite the side wall 138. The side panel wall is connected to the bottom panel wall 144 opposite the top wall 140. The bottom panel wall is connected to the top rail lip opposite the side panel wall. In some embodiments, each adjacent wall or lip 130, 136, 128, 140, 142, 144, 128 is connected to the immediately next adjacent wall or lip at a right angle.

The bottom panel wall 144 supports an end 146 of the panel 102 at the member 72. The side panel wall 142 provides a lateral boundary for the panel 102. The lips 128, 130 secure the cross bar 106 to the member 72. A top 148 of the bottom wall 136 supports the end 108 of the cross bar 106.

Each of the keys 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90 are the same, so only one key 80 will be described in detail. The key comprises a head 150, a shaft 152, a retainer 154, a shoulder 156. In some embodiments, the head comprises an annular surface 158, a radial surface 160, and a front face 162. The annular surface 158 connects to the radial surface 160, which connects to the front face 162. In some embodiments, the shaft 152 and the retainer 154 comprise a cylindrical perimeter. In some embodiments, the shoulder comprises a first cylindrical portion 164 and a conical portion 166. The shoulder joins the shaft 152 to the retainer 154. The retainer comprises a width or a diameter that is greater than the width or diameter of the shoulder. The head 150 has a width or diameter that is greater than the width or diameter of the shaft 152. In some embodiments, the shaft comprises a width or a diameter that is greater than the width or diameter of the retainer and the shoulder. In some embodiments, the keys are rivets.

The longitudinal members 72, 74 comprise key mount apertures (not shown). The shoulder 156 of each key is at least partially, and sometimes fully, contained within such key mount apertures. The shaft 152 and the head extend from the external side of the sidewall 138. The retainer is located on the interior side of the sidewall 138, as shown in FIG. 7. The key is secured by the retainer on one side of the sidewall 138 and the shaft 152 on the other side of the sidewall 138. The retainer and shaft each have a width or diameter that is greater than the width or diameter of the key mount apertures in the members 72, 74. In some embodiments, the pairs of keys at each end of the members 72, 74 are vertically aligned, as shown in FIG. 5.

In some embodiments, the entry aperture 68 and the engaged aperture 88 have a square or rectangle shape and the shaft 152 of the key 80 has a corresponding square or rectangle shape. Therefore, other perimeter shapes are possible for the entry aperture 68, the engaged aperture 88, the shaft 152, and the head 150 of the key so long as the engaged aperture can receive the shaft 152, the entry aperture 60 can receive the head, and the head is larger than the engaged aperture in at least one dimension to prevent lateral withdraw of the head through the engaged aperture.

FIG. 9 shows that the cross bar 106 is located closer to ends 92, 96 than ends 94, 98. However, the cross bar 106 maybe located at any location along the longitudinal length of the longitudinal members. In some embodiments, two or more cross bars are provided along the longitudinal length of the spanning unit 20 between the first ends 92, 96 and the second ends 94, 98. In some embodiments, the two or more cross bars 106 are spaced equidistantly apart from each between the first ends 92, 96 and the second ends 94, 98.

FIGS. 10 and 11 show the panel 102 in additional detail. The panel 102 comprises a main surface 170, two longitudinal member adjacent sides 172, 174 and panel adjacent sides 176, 178. In some embodiments, main surface 170 meets the two sides 176, 178 at beveled edges 179, 180 and the sides 172, 174 at beveled edges 182, 184.

The sidewalls of the sides 176, 178 extend downward to join with bottom walls 186, 188, respectively. The bottom walls 186, 188 extend inward from the sidewalls to inside lips 190, 192, respectively, as shown in FIG. 11. A portion of the bottom walls 186, 188 are supported on the bottom panel walls 144 of each longitudinal member 72, 74 as shown in FIG. 7.

In some embodiments, the sidewalls of the sides 176, 178 are in surface to surface contact with, or are closely adjacent to, the corresponding sidewalls of the adjacent panel(s) 102 along the longitudinal length of the spanning unit 20. In some embodiments, the panels 102 may be spaced apart so that there are gaps (not shown) between adjacent panels 102 at one or more locations along the longitudinal length of the spanning unit 20. In some embodiments, a single long panel (not shown) is used in place of the multiple panels 102 shown in FIG. 5, and between the ends 92, 94 and ends 96, 98.

The longitudinal members 72, 74, and therefore the spanning unit 20, are removably connected to the posts 12, 14, 16, 18 via the keys 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90 and respective key openings 32. The head 150 of each key 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90 is vertically aligned with the entry aperture 60 of the key opening corresponding to the desired height of the spanning unit. Then the corresponding longitudinal member 72, 74 is moved toward the corresponding post and/or the post is moved toward the corresponding longitudinal member to cause the head 150 to enter the entry aperture 60. The movement will continue until the head is past a depth of the entry opening and is within the channel 56, 57. Then the longitudinal member is moved downward (direction A of FIG. 12) and/or the post is moved upward (direction B of FIG. 12) to cause the shoulder 156 of the key to enter and engage the engaged aperture 62 and to rest on the bottom 64 of the engaged aperture 62. The key is secured from lateral withdraw (in the direction C or D as applicable of FIG. 1) from the corresponding key opening by contact or blocking by the head 150 being larger than the width or diameter of the engaged aperture 62. Therefore, the back side of the head 150 may contact the inside of the wall 54, 55 within the channel 56, 57 about and adjacent the engaged aperture 62 of the corresponding post.

In some embodiments, the shaft 152 and the engaged aperture 62 are sized so that the shaft 152 is friction fitted in the engaged aperture. In some embodiments, the depth of the shaft of the key between the back of the head and the corresponding longitudinal member is sized to friction fit the depth of the wall 54, 55 of the post. The friction fitting adds rigidity to the bed and the joinder of the posts to the spanning unit.

To disengage the post(s) from the longitudinal member(s) 72, 74, the longitudinal member is raised (direction B of FIG. 12) and or the post is lowered (direction A of FIG. 12) to cause the shafts of the keys to move from the engaged aperture to the entry aperture 60 of the corresponding key openings. When the head of the key is aligned with the corresponding entry aperture, the head and the key can be withdrawn from the entry aperture by moving the post laterally away from the longitudinal member and or moving the longitudinal member away from the post until the head 150 of the respective key is out of the respective key opening.

When the longitudinal members comprise multiple keys to engaged each leg, set of keys (76, 78), (80, 82), (84, 86), (88, 90) will move simultaneously with the corresponding longitudinal member relative to the corresponding key openings of the corresponding post and vise versa. While the figures show each end of the longitudinal members comprise two vertically aligned keys as key sets (76, 78), (80, 82), (84, 86), (88, 90), in some embodiments, the longitudinal members comprise one key at each end of the longitudinal members. In some embodiments, the longitudinal members comprise three more or more keys at each end of the longitudinal members.

The longitudinal members and therefore the spanning unit 20, can be deployed at selected heights along the height of the posts, according to user preference and application, by selecting and installing the keys at the key openings that correspond to the desired vertical height of the spanning unit along the posts.

In some embodiments, each of the side ends 48, 49 of the plates 22, 24 comprises one or more keys (not shown), which are the same as key 80. The arm 38 comprises key openings (not show), which are the same as key openings 32. Therefore, the plates 22, 24 can be secured to the posts 12, 14, 16, 18 in the same manner that the spanning unit is secured to the posts.

In some embodiments, one or more end bars extending between the posts should be used in place of plate 22, 24. The one or more end bars could be spaced apart vertically when more than one end bar is used. Therefore, the end bars could provide ends of the bed that are more open. In some embodiment a plurality of end plates at each end. Therefore, more than one end plate could extend between post 12, 14.

In some embodiments, end plates 22, 24 are not used. Therefore, the spanning unit can provide the cross support to the bed between the posts, such as via the one or more cross bars 106.

FIG. 13 shows a second embodiment bed 200. The bed comprises the spanning unit 20 of bed 10. The bed 200 further comprises posts 212, 214, 216, 218, and end plates 222, 224. The posts 212, 214 and first end plate 222 form a first end unit 226. The posts 216, 218 and the second end plate form a second end unit 228.

The posts 212, 214, 216, 218 are each the same. The end plates 222, 224 are the same. The posts 212, 214, 216, 218 of bed 200 have a T-shaped cross-section as compared to the L-shaped cross section of posts 12, 14, 16, 18. The posts 212, 214, 216, 218 have two columns 254, 256 of key openings 32.

Each post 212, 214, 216, 218 comprises a first arm 230 and a second arm 323. The first arm meets the second arm at a right angle and the second arm extends transvers to the first arm, as showing in FIG. 15. The first arm comprises a first plate portion 234 and a second plate portion 236. The first plate portion 234 may be the same length as the second plate portion 236.

A slot 238 is formed between the first and second plate portion 234, 236 to receive a side end 240 of the corresponding end plate 222, 224 as shown in FIG. 15. In some embodiments, the corresponding side end 240 may be friction fitted into slot 238 and/or it may be fixed to the adjacent portions 234 and/or 236 by welding, a fastener(s), and/or other means of fixation and thereby joining the corresponding end plates 222, 224 to the corresponding post.

The second arm 232 comprises a first wall 242, a second wall 244, a third wall 246, a fourth wall 248, and a fifth wall 250. The first wall 242 connects the first plate portion 234 at one end and to the second wall 244 at an opposite end. The second wall 244 connects the first wall 242 at one end and to the third wall 246 at an opposite end. The third wall 246 connects the second wall 244 at one end and to the fourth wall 248 at an opposite end. The fourth wall 248 connects the third wall 246 at one end and to the fifth wall 250 at an opposite end. The fifth wall 250 connects the fourth wall 248 at one end and to the second plate portion 236 at an opposite end. A channel 252 is formed within the second arm 232 by the walls 242, 244, 246, 248, 250. The side end 240 may be positioned to extend into, including in some applications to bisect, the channel 252, as shown in FIG. 15. In some embodiments, the following pairs of portions and/or walls join at right angles: portion 234 and wall 242, wall 242 and wall 244, wall 244 and wall 246, wall 246 and wall 248, wall 248 and wall 250, wall 250 and portion 236.

The posts 212, 214, 216, 218 comprise two columns 254, 256 of key openings 32 separated by the arm 230 and corresponding plate 222, 224 when joined to the corresponding post. In some embodiments, the key openings in each of the first column 254 and the second column 256 are vertically aligned as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. In some embodiments, the key openings 32 extend from a top end 258 of the post to a bottom end 261 of the post as shown in FIG. 17.

The keys of longitudinal members 72, 74 at the end 92, 96 are connected to the key openings 32 of post 212, 214 that are positioned in the corresponding column 254, 256 that is on the interior side 260 of arm 230 (and the corresponding plate 222, 224) adjacent the spanning unit 20, as shown in FIG. 13. Similarly, the keys of longitudinal members 72, 74 at the end 94, 98 are connected to the key openings 32 of posts 216, 218 in the corresponding column 254, 256 that is on the interior side 262 of arm 230 (and the corresponding plate 222, 224) adjacent the spanning unit 20, as shown in FIG. 13.

Therefore, each of the posts can support a second spanning unit on an exterior side 266, 264 of the arm 230 of each post. FIG. 18 shows a second spanning unit 280 supported by posts 212, 214 on the side 264 of arm 230 of each post 212, 214.

Third embodiment bed 270 comprises posts 212, 214, 274, 276, spanning member 280, and end plates 222, 278. The posts 212, 214 and first end plate 222 form the first end unit 226. The posts 274, 276 and the second end plate 278 form a second end unit 282.

The posts 274, 276 are identical to posts 212, 214. The end plate 278 is identical to end plate 222. The second spanning unit 280 is the same as spanning unit 20.

FIG. 19 shows a view of the joinder of spanning unit 20 and spanning unit 280 at post 214. Post 214 is shown transparently. Two of key openings 32 of column 256 receive the keys 76, 78 of longitudinal member 72 of the spanning unit 20 on one side of the arm 230 and plate 222. Two of the key openings 32 of column 254 received the keys 80 a, 82 a of longitudinal member 72 a of spanning unit 280 one the opposite side of the arm 230 and the plate 222 at post 214. The joinder is the same at post 212 for the corresponding parts of longitudinal member 74 and posts 212.

Therefore, two beds, bed 200 and bed 270, can be supported by and share common posts 212, 214 forming a bed row 272. The two beds 200, 270 also share a common end plate 222.

FIG. 20 shows a second embodiment bed row 294 showing four beds 200, 270, 290, 292 joined with common posts. The third spanning unit 296 and the fourth spanning unit 298 are the same as spanning unit 20. Posts 274, 276, 300, 302, 304, 306 are the same as posts 216, 218. End plates 308, 310, 312 are the same as end plates 222 and 224.

Bed 200 shares common posts 212, 214 and common end plate 222 with the second bed 270 as explained above. Similarly, bed 200 shares common posts 216, 218 and common end plate 224 with the third bed 290. Similarly, the fourth bed 292 shares common posts 274, 276 and common end plate 310 with the second bed 270.

Any number of beds can be arranged in a row, with adjacent beds sharing common posts and/or end plates. In the example of FIG. 20, four beds utilize ten posts rather than sixteen posts and five end plates rather than eight plates that would be used with stand-alone beds.

FIGS. 21 and 22 shows a third embodiment bed row 324 including a workstation 322. Two beds 200, 320 are spaced apart by the intervening workstation 322. Bed 320 is the same as bed 200.

The fifth spanning unit 326 of bed 320 is the same as spanning unit 20. Posts 338, 340, 344, 346 are the same as posts 216, 218. End plates 342, 348 are the same as end plates 222, 224.

The workstation comprises a sixth spanning unit 350. The sixth spanning unit 350 is the same as spanning unit 20, except spanning unit 350 has a shorter longitudinal length than unit 20 as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22. Spanning unit 350 may or may not have a mid-brace 104 and/or cross bar 106. In the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 21, the spanning unit 350 has fewer panels 102 on account of its shorter longitudinal length. In some embodiments, the workstation 322 may comprise a spanning unit with a longitudinal length that is the same or longer than the spanning units 20, 326 of adjacent beds. In some embodiments, the spanning unit comprises one longitudinally longer panel (not shown) between end plates 222 348 in place of the four panels 102 shown in FIG. 21.

The workstation comprises the spanning unit 350, posts 212, 346, and end plates 222, 348. The spanning unit 350 is located at a higher vertical location as compared to spanning units 20 and 326. The spanning unit 350 may be located so that the panels 102 provide a work surface that a person may use standing or seated on a stool.

FIG. 23 shows the workstation and adjacent bed portions. The posts 212 and 346 are shown transparently. The elements of spanning unit 350 are labeled the same as the elements of spanning unit 20 except a suffix of c is added to each label, so that for example, longitudinal member 72 of spanning unit 20 corresponds to longitudinal member 72 c of spanning unit 350. Similarly, the elements of spanning unit 326 are labeled the same as the elements of spanning unit 20 except that a suffix of b is added to each label.

The longitudinal member 72 b of spanning unit 326 joins with post 346 and the keys 80 b, 82 b are received in the corresponding key openings 32 in column 254 on a first side 352 of the arm 230 of the post 346 as shown in FIG. 23. The longitudinal member 72 c of spanning unit 350 joins with post 346 and the keys 76 c, 78 c are received in the corresponding key openings 32 in column 256 on a second side 354 of the arm 230 of the post 346 as shown in FIG. 23.

The longitudinal member 72 c of spanning unit 350 joins with post 212 and the keys 80 c, 82 c are received in the corresponding key openings 32 in column 254 on a first side 356 of the arm 230 of the post 212 as shown in FIG. 23. The longitudinal member 72 of spanning unit 20 joins with post 212 and the keys 76, 78 are received in the corresponding key openings 32 in column 256 on a second side 358 of the arm 230 of the post 346.

While the spanning unit 350 of the workstation is located at the top of the posts, the spanning unit 350 can be deployed at any desired position along the height of the posts where the key openings 32 are located.

Further, while the workstation is shown between two beds, the workstation can be deployed with any number of beds, including with two, three, four, or more beds. Further, the workstation can be used with a single bed where it is deployed at one end of the bed. The workstation can be duplicated and deployed at each end of the bed.

FIG. 24 shows bed 200 with a side rail 362 and a shelf 364. The side rail 362 comprises a main body 366 and first and second keys 382, 384 at opposite ends of the main body. The body may join with a top wall 370 at a top end 273 of the main body. A top end lip 372 extends downward from the top wall 370 on a side of the top wall opposite the main body. The body is also connected with a bottom wall 378 at a bottom end 380. A bottom end lip 376 extends downward from the bottom wall 378 on a side of the bottom wall opposite the main body. The keys 382, 384 are the same as key 80.

FIG. 28 shows the side rail is received between the longitudinal member 74 and the panels 102. In some embodiments, the bottom wall 378 of the side rail 362 rests on and may be supported on the top wall 140 of longitudinal member 74. In some embodiments, the bottom wall 378 may be spaced apart from, rather than in surface-to-surface contact with, the top wall 140. The bottom lip 376 extends between the side wall 142 of the longitudinal member 74 on one side and the panel 102 on the other side, as shown in FIG. 28. The location of the bottom lip 376 between the side wall 142 and the panel 102 provides the side rail 362 with lower support at least against lateral movement of the side rail 362. The side rail 362 is supported adjacent to the top by the engagement of the keys 382, 384 with corresponding key openings 32 in posts 212, 216, respectively, as shown in FIG. 26.

While the side rail 362 is shown on one side of bed 200, it could be deployed on the other side or it could be duplicated and deployed on both sides of the bed 200.

FIGS. 29 and 30 show the shelf 364 in additional detail. The shelf 364 comprises a shelf surface and keys 416, 418, 420, 422. The keys 416, 418, 420, 222 are the same as key 80. The shelf may comprise side walls. A first sidewall 394 and a second sidewall 396 extend downward from opposites sides of the shelf surface 390. A third sidewall 392 and an opposite fourth sidewall (not shown) extend downward from opposites sides of the shelf surface 390.

The shelf comprises L-brackets 404, 406. The L-brackets 404, 406 each comprise a first arm 410, 414 and a second arm 408, 412. The first arm 410, 414 may be joined to a bottom side 424 of the main plank 391 opposite the shelf surface 390. In some embodiments, the lips 400, 402 comprise slots 426, 428, 430, 432 for receiving opposite ends of L-brackets 404, 406, as shown in FIG. 30. The slots 426, 428, 430, 432 support the L-brackets 404, 406 in position and against lateral and longitudinal movement or distortion. In some embodiments, arms 408, 412 are arranged and joined at a right angle to the respective arms 410, 414.

Second arms 408, 412 each comprises two keys 416, 418, 420, 422. The keys are arranged vertically along the second arms. In some embodiments, the keys are vertically aligned. While the shelf is shown with four keys, in some embodiments two (one on each arm 408, 412), three, or more keys may be used.

In some embodiments, other side rail configurations, such as side rails 630 of FIG. 48, can be used where the siderail comprises one or more keys at opposite ends for engaging with the key openings of posts 212, 216 or other posts, such as post 214, 218.

FIG. 31 shows the shelf 364 mounted on the posts 212, 214, where post 214 is shown transparently. Keys 416, 418, 420, 422 are engaged with key openings 32 of the posts 214, 214. Top key 416 is engaged with a truncated key opening 32 d, where the top of the entry aperture is missing and the key 418 is received in the engaged aperture of the key opening 32 d. The shelf 364 is installed to the posts in the same manner that the spanning unit is installed to the posts. The head of the keys are aligned with the entry aperture of the key opening of the corresponding posts. Then the post is moved toward the shelf and/or the shelf is moved toward the post until the head of the key is received in the channels of the post. Then the shelf is moved downward and/or the post is moved upward until the key is received and seated in the receiving aperture. The shelf is removed by the opposite procedure.

While the shelf is shown deployed at posts 212, 214, it could be deployed at posts 216, 218 or it could be duplicated and the shelves deployed at both ends of the bed 200.

FIG. 54 shows a second embodiment shelf 690. The shelf has four L-brackets 692, 694, 696, 698 as compared to the two L-brackets 404, 406 of shelf 364. L-bracket 694 is the same as L-bracket 406. L-bracket 698 is the same as L-bracket 404. L-bracket 692 is the same as L-bracket 694, except bracket 692 is rotated 180 degrees and the keys are positioned to extend on the outside as shown in FIG. 54. L-bracket 696 is the same as L-bracket 698, except bracket 696 is rotated 180 degrees and the keys are positioned to extend on the outside as shown in FIG. 54. The downward extending arms of the L-brackets comprise keys 80 for engaging with the key openings 32 of the posts, such as posts 214, 212. For example, the keys 80 of bracket 692 are engageable with the key openings 32 of column 254 of post 214, the keys 80 of bracket 694 engage with the key openings of column 256 of post 214. Similarly, the keys 80 of bracket 696 will engage key openings of one column of key openings of post 212 while keys 80 of bracket 698 will engage the next adjacent key openings of the next adjacent column of key openings of post 212.

FIG. 55 shows that shelf 690 extends equally on both sides of the posts, when mounted to the posts, as compared to shelf 364 that extends further on one side of the posts than the other. The downward extending arms of the shelf 690 are centrally located relative to two of the elongated sides of the shelf.

The bed may comprise an incline feature. FIG. 32 shows a third embodiment bed 440. The bed comprises a spanning unit 442 and posts 444, 446, 450, 452. The bed also comprises end plates 448, 454. The posts 444 and 446 are the same as post 12, 14 of bed 10, except that posts 444, 446 are taller. Posts 450 and 452 are the same as posts 16, 18 of bed 10, except that posts 450, 452 are taller. The spanning unit 442 is the same as spanning unit 20 except that three plates 102 adjacent end plate 448 are replaced with an incline unit 455.

The incline unit 455 comprises an inclinable plate 456 and a frame 458. The inclinable plate 456 is movable between at least one raised position and a home position via a hinged attachment to the frame. In some embodiments, the home position is a horizontal position.

The frame 458 comprises a first member 460, a second member 462, a third member 464, and a fourth member 466. The first and second members 460, 462 are spaced apart from each other as shown in FIG. 32. The third and fourth members, 464, 466 are spaced apart from each other. The third and fourth members are each arranged transverse to, and in some embodiments, at a right angle to, the first and second members 460, 462. In some embodiments, the first, second, third, and fourth members form a quadrilateral opening 468.

In some embodiments, each of the members 460, 462, 464, 466 have a U-shaped cross section forming a channel 486, 488, 490, 492 with a flat bottom and opposite vertical sidewalls extending upward from the flat bottom as shown in FIG. 33. The bottom of members 460, 462 comprise a plurality of apertures 510, 514 respectively, as shown in FIG. 33.

The inclinable plate 456 is hinged to the frame at a first end 470, 472 of members 460 462 at pins 474, 476. The pins extend through holes in the vertical sidewalls of the members 460, 462, and corresponding holes in the side lips 478, 480 that extend downward on opposite sides of the inclinable plate 456. The pins also extend into an inside sidewall 540, 542 of the channels 486, 488 as shown in FIG. 37 for channel 486. The ends 470, 472 are positioned adjacent the first panel 102 in the row of panels of the spanning unit 442. The ends 482, 484 of members 460, 462 opposite the pins 474, 476 and ends 470, 472 are positioned adjacent end plate 448 and in the spanning unit 442.

The lips 478, 480 are received within the channel 486, 488 of the members 460, 462, when the inclinable plate 456 is in the home position where the plate 456 is aligned with adjacent panels 102.

A first brace 494 is fixed to inclinable plate 456 between a first end 496 and a second end 498 of the inclinable plate. In some embodiments, the brace 494 is pivotally connected at a mid-point between the first and second ends 496, 498. In some embodiments, the brace is pivotally joined to the lip 478 at an aperture with a pin 500 or other fastener. The opposite end 502 of the brace 494 is received in channel 486 of member 460. In some embodiments, the end 502 of the brace is received into one of the apertures 510 in the channel 486.

A second brace 506 is fixed to inclinable plate 456 between a first end 496 and a second end 498 of the inclinable plate. In some embodiments, the brace 506 is pivotally connected at a mid-point between the first and second ends 496, 498. In some embodiments, the brace 506 is pivotally joined to the lip 480 at an aperture with a pin 508 or other fastener. The opposite end 502 of the brace 494 is received in channel 486 of member 462. In some embodiments, the end 512 of the brace is received into one of the apertures 514 in the channel 488.

FIG. 35 shows the end 502 comprises a stop portion 528 that extends beyond the sides 530, 532 of the brace 494. Brace 506 is the same as brace 494. As shown in FIG. 35, the stop portion 528 extends through the aperture 510 to secure the brace against movement in the backward direction D and therefore to secure the inclinable plate 456 against movement in the downward direction F. The terminal ends 538 of side walls 530, 532 of the brace rest against the floor 534 of the channel 486 to prevent further entry of the brace into the aperture 510. The stop portion 528 may rest against the back wall 536 of the aperture 510.

The degree of incline of the inclinable plate 456 can be user selected by selecting the apertures 510, 514 that correspond to the desired degree incline. Engaging the braces 494, 506 in apertures nearer the first end 482, 484 provides the inclinable plate 456 with a lesser degree of incline relative to the horizontal home position. Engaging the braces 494 in apertures nearer the second end 474, 472 provides the inclinable plate 456 with a greater degree of incline relative to the horizontal home position. In some embodiments, the inclinable surface can be set at one of a plurality of positions in the range of 0 degrees and 90 degrees, inclusive.

As the inclinable plate 456 is raised up in the direction E about the pins 474, 476 the ends 502, 512 of the braces 494, 506 are drawn forward in the direction G of FIG. 33 within the channels 486, 488. As the inclinable plate is lowered down in the direction F about the pins 474, 476 ends 502, 512 of the braces 494, 506 are moved in the rearward direction H within the channels 486, 488. As ends 502, 512 move within the respective channels 486, 488 in directions G or H, the opposite end 504 pivots about the pin or fastener 500 at aperture. In order to begin moving the ends 502, 512 in the direction H when they are in the apertures 510, 514, the inclinable plate 456 is first moved upward in the direction E until the ends 502, 512 are withdrawn from the apertures 510, 514, then the plate 456 may be moved downward in the direction F and the ends 502, 512 in the direction H.

In some embodiments, a cross-member 516 extends across the plate 456 between the pins 500, 508. The opposite ends 518, 520 of the cross-member an comprise aperture that receives the terminal end of the pins 500, 508 and provides additional support to the connections with the braces 494, 506. In some embodiments, a second cross-member 522 extends between intermediate locations 524, 526 of braces 494, 506 and joins the braces 494, 506 and cause them to move in sync.

The frame 458 for the incline unit 455 is supported on opposite sides at members 460 and 462 at the longitudinal members 72, 74. FIG. 38 shows the bottom of the member 460 rests and is supported on the wall 144 of the longitudinal member 72 and the outside wall 544 of the member 460 is adjacent the wall 142 of the longitudinal member 72. Member 462 is similarly supported by longitudinal member 74.

FIGS. 46 and 47A show further embodiment posts 590, 592, and end plate 594 useable with the spanning units, beds, and workstations disclosed herein. Each opposite side end 604, 606 comprises a plurality of keys 596, which are the same key 80. FIG. 46 shows that each side end of the end plate comprises four vertically aligned keys 596. However, in some embodiments, one or more keys are provided on each side end of the end plate.

Post 590 and post 592 are mirror image identical to each other about the mid-plane 598 bisecting the end plate 594 and the corresponding spanning unit when deployed with a spanning unit. Therefore, post 590 will be described in detail. Post 590 has a first arm 612, and second arm 614. The second arm 614 is the same as arm 58 of post 14, 16. The first arm 612 is modified from the arm 39 in that portion 43 is removed from post 590 and the plate 594 is received against the outside 620 of portion 618.

The first arm 612 comprises a plurality of key openings 32. In some embodiments, the key openings are vertically aligned as shown in FIG. 46. Therefore, the plate 594 can engage (or disengage) the post 590, 592 and be secured (or disconnected) to the post in the same manner that the spanning unit is secured (or disconnected) to the post. The head 608 is aligned with the entry aperture of the key opening 32. Then the plate 594 is moved toward the post 590 (in the direction I of FIG. 47A) and or the post 590 is moved toward the plate 594 (in the direction J of FIG. 47A). The movement will continue until the head is past a depth of the entry opening. Then the plate 594 is moved downward (direction K of FIG. 47A) and/or the post is moved upward (direction L of FIG. 47A) to cause the shoulder of the key 596 to enter and engage the engaged aperture 62 and to rest on the bottom of the engaged aperture of the key opening 32. The key 596 is secured from lateral withdraw from the corresponding key opening by contact or blocking by the head 608 of the key(s) 596 being larger than the width or diameter of the engaged aperture of the key opening 32. Therefore, the back side of the head 608 may contact the side 622 of portion 618 about and adjacent the engaged aperture of the post 590. Post 592 engages the side end 606 of the plate 594 in the same manner.

The plate 594 is disengaged from the post(s) 590, 592 by the reverse of the forgoing procedure. To disengage the post(s) from the end plate, the end plate is raised (direction L of FIG. 47A) and or the post is lowered (direction K of FIG. 47A) to cause the shafts of the keys to move from the engaged aperture to the entry aperture 60 of the corresponding key openings. When the head of the key is aligned with the corresponding entry aperture, the head and the key can be withdrawn from the entry aperture by moving the post laterally away (direction I of FIG. 47A) from the end plate and or moving the end plate away from the post (direction J of FIG. 47A) until the head of the respective key is out of the respective key opening.

While the first arm 612 is shown on an L-shaped post in FIGS. 46-47A, the key openings for engaging an end plate can be provided on a T-shaped post, such as posts 212, 214, 216, 218 at arm 230.

FIG. 47B shows that fasteners such as bolts 597 can be used in place of keys 596. The side ends of the end plate 594 may comprise apertures at the location of the key openings 32 and a bolt 597 may be placed through the engaging aperture of the key opening. A nut (not shown) may be fixed to the threaded shaft (not shown) of the bolt 597 on a side opposite the arm 612 and opposite the head 609. The bolt and nut combination can secure the end plate 594 to the posts 590, 592 at the engaged aperture of the selected key openings. The head 609 of the bolt may comprises a hexagonal perimeter 611.

FIG. 48 show the bed 440 with second embodiment side rails 630 and a mattress 441 shown on spanning unit 442. The side rail 630 is deployed on both sides of the spanning unit 442, but could be deployed on only one side. FIG. 49 shows portions of the side rail 630. The side rail comprises two end brackets 634, 636 connected by two rails 650, 652.

Each end bracket 634, 636 comprises a first arm 638, 642 and a second arm 640, 644. The first arm 638, 642 comprises two keys 80 and two optional key locations 647, 649. Keys 80 can be mounted in the optional key location in addition and/or in the alternative to the locations where the keys 80 are shown. FIG. 49 shows the keys 80 and locations 647, 649 of each arm 638 are vertically aligned. The first arm is transverse to the second arm. In some embodiments, the first arm is perpendicular to the second arm. The rails are attached at opposite ends to the respective second arms with axially aligned bolts 654, 656, which extend through apertures (not shown) in the second arms to engage threaded apertures in the ends of the rails to connect second the rails to the brackets 634, 636.

The keys of the first and second end brackets 634, 636 of the first side rail 630 engage with the key openings 32 of the posts 444, 450, respectively. The keys of the first and second end brackets 634, 636 of the second side rail 630 engage with the key openings 32 of the posts 446, 452, respectively. FIG. 50 shows a transparent view of post 444 where the keys 80 of bracket 634 is engaged with key openings 32 of the leg. The side rails 630 can be engaged and disengaged with the respective posts in the same manner as the spanning unit. The user can select the key openings of the posts that correspond to the desired height of the side rails relative to the posts, spanning unit, and/or mattress. In some embodiments, the side rails 630 comprises only one rail 650. In some embodiments, the siderails comprise more than two rails.

FIGS. 39 to 41 show workstations 550, 552, 554, which are each the same as bed 200 except the spanning unit 20 is deployed at different locations along the height of the posts. The workstations may be used as beds if it is desired to have the bedding surface at the heights shown in FIGS. 39 to 41.

FIG. 42 shows the bed 10 with the spanning unit 20 deployed at the top of the posts. FIG. 43 shows a bunk bed 556, which is the same as bed 200, except bed 556 has two spanning units 20 deployed at different heights along the height of the posts to create a bunk bed. In some embodiments, one or more siderails 362 can be used on one or both sides of the top spanning unit 20 of the bunk bed for increased safety.

FIG. 60 shows a second embodiment bunk bed 740. The bed 740 comprises posts 742, 744, 748, 750, which are the same as post 212, except that posts 742, 744, 748, 750 are elongated to provide a taller configuration. End plates 746, 752 are the same as end plates 222, 224, respectively, except that end plates 746, 752 are elongated to provide a taller configuration. Therefore, the bed 740 is the same as bed 200, except the posts 742, 744, 748, 750 and end plate 746, 752 are elongated to provide a taller configuration, there are two spanning units 20 deployed at different heights along the height of the posts to create a bunk bed, and the bed 740 comprises four side rails 630 with two side rails adjacent each of the spanning units 20 and mattresses 441. While the mattresses 441 are shown, they are optional and other bedding or no bedding could be used. Further, while side rails are shown on both sides of each spanning unit, they could be used on only one side of each spanning unit or with one spanning unit but not the other of the bed. Therefore, between zero and four, inclusive, or more, railings can be used in combination. Further, the side rail and spanning units can be placed at the desired height along the vertical extent of the posts.

Other deployments of the spanning unit(s) along the height of the posts are possible, including at a sitting desk height, a step height adjacent the ground, a bench height for providing a seating surface at the spanning unit, etc. Therefore, the spanning unit can provide a person support surface, including a laying or sitting surface, a mattress support surface, a work surface, a desktop surface, storage surface, a step surface, and/or the like. The bed can be converted and reconfigured to a workstation or for other uses and vise versa by moving the spanning unit to the desired height relative to the posts and the ground. When deployed as a bed, a mattress, such as mattress 441 and/or other bedding material (not shown) can be located on the spanning unit(s) including on the panels 102 and the surface 100.

The beds 10, 200, 440, 556 and workstations 322, 550, 552, 554 can utilize some or all of the posts of the beds/workstations. For example, the bed 200 could use posts 16, 18, and end unit 28 in place of posts 216, 218 and end unit 226. In addition or in the alternative, bed 200 could use posts 12, 14, and end unit 26 in place of posts 212, 214 and end unit 226. When the use of an adjacent spanning unit is not needed or anticipated, the L-shaped posts, e.g. 12, 14, 16, 18 or 446, 444, 450, 452 can be used in place of the T-shaped posts, e.g. 212, 214, 216, 218 at a respective end or ends of the bed or workstation. The T-shaped posts allow at least two adjacent spanning units to use at least two common posts (and a common end plate). The L-shaped posts can be used at an end of the bed or workstation where further adjoining spanning units are not anticipated. Further, when L-shaped posts are used, they can be replaced by T-shaped posts if there later arises a desire to add an adjacent adjoined bed or workstation.

In some embodiments, beds or workstations comprises wheels. For example, the bottom end of the posts may comprise wheels. Then the corresponding bed or workstation can be more easily moved, even when a person in the bed or the bed or workstation otherwise is carrying a load. In one example, wheels can be provided at the bottom of each of posts 12, 14, 16, 18 or posts 212, 214, 216, 218 or posts 212, 214, 216, 218, 276, 274 or the posts of bed row 294, or the posts of bed row 324, or posts 444, 446, 450, 452. In some embodiments, the wheels are provided on the bottom of some but not all posts of a bed, workstation, or bed row, such as posts 212, 214 but not posts 216, 218.

FIG. 44 shows casters or wheels 560, 562, 564, 568 at the bottom of each of the posts 444, 446, 450, 452, respectively. Each wheel is connected to the bottom of the post by a wheel bracket 570, 572, 574, 576. Each of the wheels brackets and wheels are the same so only bracket 572 and wheel 562 will be described in detail. The bracket 572 comprises an upper member 571 and a swivel member 573.

The upper member 571 comprises an L-bracket comprising a first arm 575 and a second arm 577 that intersect, in some embodiments, at a right angle. The upper member 571 comprises a floor 578 connected to the L-bracket. The floor comprises an recess to receive a pivot pin 579 fixed to the swivel member. The pivot pin is rotatable axially within the recess of the floor to allow the swivel member 573 to pivot axially about the pin to change the direction of the wheel 562, permitting 360 degrees of movement of the wheel about the pin.

The swivel has an upper portion 580 where the pivot pin is attached and a lower portion 581 that partially surrounds the wheel. The lower portion comprises a fork that extends on each side of the wheel to reach the center of the wheel where an axel is fixed, in some embodiments, with securing nut(s) 582 to the ends of fork.

In some embodiments, the L-bracket is fixed to the corresponding post by placing fasteners, such as bolt and nut combinations through the mounting apertures 583 and corresponding apertures (not shown) in the bottom of the corresponding posts. In some mounting arrangements, the arm 575 of the upper member 571 is joined to arm 40 of the post 446 and arm 577 of the upper member 571 is joined to arm 38 of the post 446.

In some embodiments, the bed or workstation is provided with one or more drawers. The drawers may be mounted to one or more of the posts under the spanning unit. The drawers can be movable between a closed position and an extended position providing access to an interior space of the drawers. The drawers can provide storage for personal belongings, medical supplies, bedding supplies, or any other desired matter. The drawers can be mounted to one or more posts at the key openings. The drawers may include a frame or housing comprising one or more keys for engaging the key opening(s) of the post(s) for mounting the drawers in a desired location. The end plates, such as end plates 222, 344 can act as sidewalls of a cabinet comprising the drawers under the spanning unit 350. In some embodiments, the drawers could be mounted above the spanning unit. In some embodiments, the drawers comprise one or more locks, such as a keyed lock, for securing the drawers in the closed position.

In some embodiments, the drawer(s) employ first and second brackets. The brackets comprise front and rear keys, which are the same as key 80. The front and rear keys engage key openings of front posts 214, 346 and of rear posts 212, 344, respectively. The brackets engage the posts and support the drawer(s). The brackets may support a one or more slide channel that receives projections from the drawer(s) and enables the drawer to be moved between the closed and extended positions.

FIG. 51 shows a set of drawers 641 deployed below the spanning unit 350 of workstation 322. The adjacent beds 200, 320 are the same as the beds 200, 320 of FIG. 21, except the spanning units 20, 326 each comprise an incline unit 455 in place of a few panels 106 of those spanning units adjacent workstation 322.

In some embodiments, the set of drawers 641 comprises two drawers 643, 645, which are the same. The drawers 643, 645 comprise a front panel 646 and an opposite back panel 648. The drawers comprise opposite side panels 651, 653 and a floor 657. The panels 646, 648, 651, 653, and the floor 657 form a semi enclosed drawer space 659 having an open top. In some embodiments, the front panel is larger than the back and side panels, as shown in FIG. 52. In some embodiments, the side panels meet the front and back panels at right angles and the front panel comprises a handle 664.

The drawers each comprise slider brackets 658, 660. The slider brackets 660 is mirror image identical to slider brackets 658 about the vertical mid-plane 662 bisecting the drawer. The slider bracket 658 comprises a main bracket plate 666. The main bracket plate comprises a front plate 668 and a rear plate 670. In some embodiments the rear plate 670 is on a rear bracket plate 672 connected to the main bracket plate 666 by fasteners 674, 676. The bracket plate 666 comprises a slide track 678 and a slide bar 680. The slide bar moves within the slide track in the directions M and N of FIG. 53 limited by a stop plate 682 at the rear end of the track. The slide bar is fixed to the side panel 652 of the drawer by one or more fasteners (not shown) placed at one or more openings (shown in FIG. 53) provided along the length of the slide bar. When the drawer moves, the slide bar moves with the drawer and within the slide track. The slide track allows movement of the drawer relative to the posts and also supports the drawer. The slide track allow the drawer to be pulled out in the direction M and to be pushed in the direction N.

The front plate 668 comprises one or more keys 80. The rear plate 670 comprises one or more keys 80. Therefore, the front and rear of the bracket plate 666 can be mounted to the respective front and rear posts, 214, 212 with the keys 80 of the bracket engaging selected key openings of the posts which mount the drawer at the desire vertical height. Similarly, the bracket of the slider bracket 660 is connected to front and rear posts, 346, 348, respectively, with the keys 80 of the bracket plate engaging selected key openings of the post, which mount the drawer at the desired vertical height. The keys 80 of the brackets engage and disengage the posts is the same manner as the keys of the spanning units engage and disengage the posts.

In some embodiments, the area under (or over) the spanning unit comprises a cabinet including one or more access doors. For example, one, two, or more doors could be added to a front side of the area below spanning unit 350 to create a storage space thereunder. A floor panel could be provided adjacent the bottom of posts 212, 214, 344, 346 to provide floor to enclose the cabinet. Keys of the floor panel are engageable with key openings of the posts 212, 214, 344, 346 to secure the floor panel to the corresponding posts. Similarly, a back panel could be added opposite the doors and fixed to the posts 212, 244 to enclose a back side. The end plates 222, 348 can act as sidewalls for the cabinet. The back panel connects to the posts 214, 244 with keys at desired key openings of the posts to secure the back panel to the corresponding posts.

In some embodiments, the cabinet comprises a clothes rod extending from the side of panel 222 to the side of panel 348. First and second side brackets are connected at each of the opposite ends of the rod, transverse to the rod. The rod attaches to each bracket between the opposite ends of the side brackets. The side brackets space the rod between front posts 214, 346, and rear posts 212, 344 within the cabinet. Front and rear keys, which are the same as key 80, of the first side bracket engage corresponding front post 214 and rear posts 212, respectively. Front and rear keys, which are the same as key 80, of the second side bracket engages corresponding front post 346 and rear posts 344, respectively. Therefore, the brackets connect to the posts and support clothes rod. The access door(s) may comprise a lock, such as a keyed lock for securing the cabinet in a closed condition.

FIG. 61 shows a bed row 760 with a workstation 762 comprising a cabinet 764. Beds 776 and 768 are on opposite sides of the workstation 762. Bed 766 comprises posts 212, 214 at an end adjacent the workstation and post 450, 452 at an opposite end. End plate 221 is identical to end plate 222 except being taller and mounted to extend to the bottom of posts 212, 214. End plate 457 is identical to end plate 454 except being taller and mounted to extend to the bottom of posts 450, 452. The spanning unit 20 extends between and engages the posts 212, 214 and posts 450, 452 with keys 80 at corresponding key openings 32 of the respective posts, in the same manner as described with other beds disclosed herein.

Bed 768 comprises posts 444, 446 at an end opposite the workstation and post 770, 772 at an end adjacent to the workstation. End plate 774 is identical to end plate 221. End plate 449 is identical to end plate 457. A second spanning unit 20 extends between and engages the posts 444, 446 and posts 770, 772 with keys 80 at corresponding key openings 32 of the respective posts, in the same manner as described with other beds disclosed herein.

The cabinet comprises the posts 212, 214, 770, 772, end plates 221, and 774. The cabinet comprises a back wall 776, a top wall 778, a bottom wall 780, a pair of doors 782, 784. In some embodiments, the cabinet comprises a clothes rod 786. The clothes rod 786 is mounted at opposite ends by clothes brackets 788. The clothes rod can receive hangers for hanging clothes or other items.

In some embodiments, the top 794 and bottom 796 of the doors comprise a pivot pin (not shown) that extends into apertures (not shown) of top bar 790 and bottom bar 792, and pivots therein to allow the doors to move between one or more open positions, such as shown in FIG. 61, and a closed position. The top bar 790 and the bottom bar 792 are each attached to posts 214 and 770 with brackets that have keys that engage the key openings of the posts 214, 770.

The top 778 and the floor 780 engage and are supported by connection to the posts 212, 214, 770, 772 with keys (not shown) at the key openings of the posts. The back panel 776 may comprise keys for engaging the key openings of posts 212 and 772 for mounting thereto.

In some embodiments, the cabinet 764 is the cabinet and door system disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,118,185, which is herein incorporated by reference. Some or all of posts of the cabinet and door system of U.S. Pat. No. 7,118,185 can be post 212 with a T-shaped cross section, instead of an L-shaped cross section, so that the post(s) can support adjacent beds or workstations.

FIG. 62 shows one of the clothes brackets 788. The bracket 788 comprises a central bar opening 795, which can be U-shaped for receiving end 793 of the rod 786. The bracket comprises a front plate 800 at a front end 795 and a rear plate 802 at a rear end 798. The front and rear plate extend transverse, and in some embodiments perpendicular, to the main plate 789 of the bracket 788. Each of the front and rear plate comprise one, two, or more keys 80 for engaging key openings of the posts 770, 772, respectively.

FIG. 63 shows the rear plate 802 comprising two keys 80 that are engageable with the key openings 32 of the post 772. The bracket for the side of the rod 786 opposite of bracket 778 is mirror image identical to the bracket 778 about the mid-plane bisecting the rod 786 between end plate 774 and end plate 221.

FIG. 65 shows a bed row 803 with a workstation 804 and adjacent beds 766, 768. The workstation 804 is the same as workstation 762, except that the cabinet 764 is provided on one side and a set 806 of drawers 805 are provided on the opposite side of the workstation. The drawers 805 are the same as drawers 643, 645 and are connect in the same manner with slider brackets 658 to the posts 212, 214, 770, 772. In some embodiments the drawers 805 extend to about half the width of the workstation so that the other about half provides cabinet 764 space accessible from the doors opposite the drawers. In some embodiments, the workstation 803 comprises a bottom rail 808 comprising two power outlets 810, 812 for providing access to electrical power. In some embodiment, power outlets can be located in other places of the cabinet.

While beds are shown on two sides of the workstations shown in FIGS. 21, 51, 61, and 65, in some embodiments, the workstations are provided joined with only one bed. In some embodiments, the workstations are standalone and are not joined to adjacent beds. In some embodiments, multiple workstations are connected to each other without an intervening bed. The modular nature of the beds and workstations allow any desired combination of beds and/or workstations to be arranged in any order.

In some embodiments, brackets comprising one or more keys, which are the same as key 80, may be fixed to the panels, doors, drawers, or other elements to provide the key(s) for connecting and mounting to the key opening(s) of the corresponding or desired posts.

Additional accessories can be deployed on the bed or workstation at the key openings of any of the posts. In some embodiments, accessories include an IV stand, a light fixture, and/or a shelf.

The IV stand can hold containers of fluid, including medicine, blood, or nutrients intended for intravenous administration. In some embodiments, the IV stand comprises a bracket, a main pole, and one or more hangers connected to and extending from the pole. The bracket comprises one or more keys, which are the same as key 80, to engage the key openings of a post, such as post 12 or 212. In some embodiments, the IV stand may join to a post below or above the spanning unit at the post. In some embodiments, the IV stand can attach in a first column of key openings of a post while the spanning unit engages in a second column of key openings of the post.

FIGS. 56 and 57 show one embodiment of an IV stand 700. The stand comprises a bracket 702, a pole 704, and hangers 706 extending from the pole 704. The hangers 706 are located at the ends of a cross member 708 that intersects with the pole. The pole is mounted to the post 446 of the bed 440 by the bracket 702. The bracket comprises a main portion 710, and a top portion 712 and a bottom portion 714 each extending from the main portion. The top and bottom portions are spaced apart and each comprise a pole aperture 724, 726 that the pole extends through as shown in the figures. A stop mechanism 715 is mounted in the main portion. The stop mechanism comprises a knob 716 and a shaft 718 threaded through the main portion and releasably engageable with the pole. The knob is fixed to the shaft 718. A threaded block 722 may be provided opposite the knob and fixed to the main portion for engaging the threads of the shaft 718. The end 720 of the shaft 718 is engageable with the post to prevent the movement of the pole relative to the bracket.

Rotating the knob in a first direction of rotation with cause the knob and the shaft to move in the first direction θ of FIG. 56 toward the pole. The pole is secured against movement away from the shaft 718 by the restraint of the top and bottom portion 712, 174. Friction is created between the pressure caused by the shaft 718 pushing against the pole in the direction θ and the restrain against movement in that direction by the upper and lower portions holding the pole within the apertures 724, 726. Turning the knob further in the first direction causes increased pressure by the shaft 718 on the pole. The threaded block prevents the shaft 718 from retreating in the direction P until the knob is turned in the second direction of rotation opposite the first direction of rotation. Therefore, the knob can be turned to set the desired friction at the bracket on the pole to prevent the pole from vertical movement and to secure it in the vertical desired position. And the knob can be turned to release the friction and allow the pole to move vertically relative to the bracket. Therefore, the height of the pole relative to the bed 440 can be set by a user.

The bracket comprises one or more keys 80 that are removably engageable with the key openings of the post(s) 446 of the bed for mounting the post at the bed. The key(s) 80 of the IV stand 700 can be engaged with the post in the same manner as the keys of the spanning member engage with the post. While the stand 700 is shown on post 446, it could be deployed on any of the posts disclosed herein and multiple stands 700 could be used. The hangers 706 are shown curved, but may be other shapes. The hangers can support an IV bag or other hangable items.

FIGS. 58 and 59 show a portion of the bed 200 with a light fixture 730. Post 214 is shown transparently in FIG. 59. The light fixture comprises ends 732, 734 and a shade 736. The shade is attached at opposite ends to the ends 732, 734. Each of the ends have apertures 738 (not shown for end 732) where keys 80 (not shown) are mounted to the ends. The ends are mirror image identical about the mid-plane bisecting plate 222 between the posts 212, 214. The keys allow the ends 732, 734 to engage and disengage the key openings 32 of the respective posts 212, 214, in the same manner as the spanning member engages the posts. A light bulb can engage electrical contacts on each end 732, 734 under the shade and span therebetween. In some embodiments, the light fixture comprises a light switch (not shown) that controls the flow of current to the electrical contacts engageable with the light bulb to control the illumination of the light (e.g. to turn it on or off, or dim or brighten to a desired degree).

In some embodiments, the bed, workstation, cabinet, and or drawer comprises one or more power outlets. In some embodiments, the power outlets be configured to provide 110 volt or 220 volt power. In some embodiments, the power outlets may include a USB (universal serial bus) outlet.

Given the modular nature of the components of the bed/workstation, the bed/workstation can be shipped in a flat or compact configuration and assembled at the location of need. The bed/workstation can be assembled without the need of tools or skilled labor.

In some embodiments, the components of the beds or workstations may be formed of steel, aluminum, and or other metals or materials.

From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous variations and modifications may be affected without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is to be understood that no limitation with respect to the specific apparatus illustrated herein is intended or should be inferred. For example, one or more component embodiments may be combined, modified, removed, or supplemented to form further embodiments within the scope of the invention. As a further example, steps provided in the flow diagrams of the figures, could be carried out in a different order to achieve desired results. Further, steps could be added or removed from the processes described. Therefore, other embodiments and implementations are within the scope of the invention. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A bed, comprising: at least four posts; each post comprising a plurality of key openings arranged vertically along the post; a plurality of longitudinal members, each of the longitudinal members comprising a plurality of keys, each longitudinal member releasably connected at opposite ends to a pair of the posts wherein the plurality of keys are removably engaged with the plurality of key openings of the pair of posts; and, at least one support member extending between the plurality of longitudinal members.
 2. The bed of claim 1, comprising a first end plate and a second end plate, each plate connected at opposite ends to a second pair of posts of the at least four posts.
 3. The bed of claim 1, the plurality of longitudinal members comprising a first longitudinal member and a second longitudinal member, the at least one support member is a mattress support member extending from the first longitudinal member to the second longitudinal member.
 4. The bed of claim 1, wherein the at least one support member is a plurality of panels.
 5. The bed of claim 4, comprising a head plate and a foot plate, each plate connected at opposite ends to a second pair of posts of the at least four posts, the plurality of panels extends along a longitudinal length of the plurality of longitudinal members from the head plate to the foot plate.
 6. The bed of claim 4, wherein the plurality of panels form a worksurface, a bedding surface, or a storage surface.
 7. The bed of claim 1, comprising a longitudinal brace extending under the at least one support member and between the plurality of longitudinal members.
 8. The bed of claim 1, wherein the posts comprise an L-shaped cross-section.
 9. The bed of claim 1, wherein the posts comprise a T-shaped cross-section.
 10. The bed of claim 1, wherein each key opening of the plurality of key openings comprises an entry aperture and an engaged aperture below the entry aperture, the entry aperture is larger than the engaged aperture, the entry aperture intersecting with the engaged aperture.
 11. The bed of claim 10, wherein each key of the plurality of keys comprises a shaft and a head connected to the shaft, the head is sized to pass through the entry aperture, the head is larger than the engaged aperture, the engaged aperture is sized to receive the shaft.
 12. The bed of claim 2, wherein the plurality of key openings of each post comprise a first vertical series of key openings and a second vertical series of key openings, the first end plate and the second end plate join to the corresponding second pair of posts between the first vertical series of key openings and the second vertical series of key openings.
 13. The bed of claim 1, wherein a first longitudinal member of the plurality of longitudinal members is connected to a first pair of posts of the at least four posts, the bed comprising a side rail extending above the first longitudinal member of and connected to each of the first pair of posts.
 14. The bed of claim 2, comprising a shelf located above at least one of the first end plate or the second end plate and between two of the posts.
 15. The bed of claim 1, comprising an inclinable member extending between the plurality of longitudinal members and moveable between at least one inclined position and a horizontal position.
 16. The bed of claim 15, comprising a brace and an incline member support frame supported on the plurality of longitudinal members, the inclinable member pivotally connected to the incline member support frame, the frame comprising a stop aperture, the brace is connected to the inclinable member at a first end and engageable with the stop aperture at a second end to support the inclinable member in the at least one inclined position.
 17. The bed of claim 1, wherein, the at least four posts is at least six posts the at least one support member comprises at least two support members; the bed comprises a first spanning unit and a second spanning unit; the plurality of longitudinal members comprise a first longitudinal member, second longitudinal member, third longitudinal member, and fourth longitudinal member; the first spanning unit comprises the first and second longitudinal members and at least one of the at least two support members extending between the first and second longitudinal members; the second spanning unit comprises the third and fourth longitudinal members and at least one of the at least two support members extending between the third and fourth longitudinal members; and the first spanning unit is adjacent to the second spanning unit and a middle two posts of the at least six posts are located between and support the first spanning unit and the second spanning unit.
 18. The bed of claim 17, wherein the first spanning unit joins to the middle two posts at a first height and the second spanning unit joins to the middle two posts at a second height, the first height is different from the second height.
 19. The bed of claim 17, comprising one or more drawers under the first spanning unit or under the second spanning unit.
 20. The bed of claim 17, comprising a cabinet, wherein the cabinet comprises the second spanning unit.
 21. The bed of claim 20, wherein the cabinet comprises an electrical power outlet.
 22. The bed of claim 20, comprising a clothes rod and a plurality of clothes rod supports, each of the clothes rod supports comprising a plurality of support keys, the clothes rod supports each supporting the clothes rod at opposite ends of the clothes rod, each clothes rod support connected with one or more of the support keys to two of the posts at one or more of the plurality of key openings of each post.
 23. The bed of claim 1, comprising an IV stand, the IV stand comprising a plurality of support keys, the IV stand connectable to one of the posts with one or more of the support keys at one or more of the plurality of key openings.
 24. The bed of claim 1, comprising a light fixture, the light fixture comprising a plurality of support keys, the light fixture connectable to two of the posts with one or more of the support keys at one or more of the plurality of key openings of each post of the two posts.
 25. The bed of claim 1, wherein a bottom of each of the posts comprises a caster.
 26. The bed of claim 2, wherein the first end plate and the second end plate are removably connectable to the corresponding second pair of posts.
 27. A method of assembling a bed, comprising the steps of: aligning an entry aperture of a key opening of a post with a head of a first key of a first end of a first longitudinal member or aligning the head with the entry aperture; moving the post so that the entry aperture is moved over the head or moving the head into the entry aperture; and, moving the post up or moving the first longitudinal member down to cause a shaft of the key adjacent the head to move into an engaged aperture of the key opening adjacent the entry aperture.
 28. The method of claim 27, comprising the steps of, aligning a second entry aperture of a second key opening of a second post with a second head of a second key of a second end of the first longitudinal member or aligning the second head with the second entry aperture; moving the second post so that the second entry aperture is moved over the second head or moving the second head into the second entry aperture; moving the second post up or moving the first longitudinal member down to cause a second shaft of the second key adjacent the second head to move into a second engaged aperture of the second key opening adjacent the second entry aperture; aligning a third entry aperture of a third key opening of a third post with a third head of a third key of a first end of a second longitudinal member or aligning the third head with the third entry aperture; moving the third post so that the third entry aperture is moved over the third head or moving the third head into the third entry aperture; moving the third post up or moving the second longitudinal member down to cause a third shaft of the third key adjacent the third head to move into a third engaged aperture of the third key opening adjacent the third entry aperture; aligning a fourth entry aperture of a fourth key opening of a fourth post with a fourth head of a fourth key of a second end of the second longitudinal member or aligning the fourth head with the fourth entry aperture; moving the fourth post so that the fourth entry aperture is moved over the fourth head or moving the fourth head into the fourth entry aperture; and, moving the fourth post up or moving the second longitudinal member down to cause a fourth shaft of the fourth key adjacent the fourth head to move into a fourth engaged aperture of the fourth key opening adjacent the fourth entry aperture.
 29. The method of claim 28, comprising the step of placing a plurality of panels on the first and second longitudinal members so that each panel spans a distance between the first and second longitudinal members to create a bed surface.
 30. The method of claim 28, comprising the step of placing a crossbar between the first and second longitudinal members.
 31. The method of claim 30, comprising the step of placing a longitudinal support on the crossbar and between the first and second longitudinal members.
 32. The method of claim 28, comprising the step of placing an incline unit on the first and second longitudinal members so that the incline unit spans a distance between the first and second longitudinal members. 